Grant Details

The Department of State, Division of Library and Information Services, provides state funds to governments to construct public libraries. Funds are awarded on a dollar-for-dollar match of the grant amount to selected governments after evaluation of applications submitted by the application deadline. The Legislature determines the amount appropriated annually for the program. These guidelines specify program policies and procedures.

Funds provided under a Library Construction Grant may be used to cover costs of any of the following, as long as the construction project results in a completed library facility:

• Architectural services;
• New construction;
• Expansion;
• Remodeling;
• Purchase of a facility or property to be used as a library. All requirements for having ownership of the property or facility as specified in Section IX.2 X.2 must be met.
• Site preparation, including the provision of parking spaces;
• Engineering costs and legal fees directly related to the construction of the library;
• Initial or fixed equipment, including shelving, tables, chairs, information and building technologies, video and telecommunications equipment, machinery, utilities, built-in equipment and enclosures or structures necessary to house them, and all other items necessary to furnish and operate a new or improved facility for the provision of library services; or
• Opening day collections.